I left my heart in San Francisco...

If you ask me, nothing compares to the curb appeal of a Victorian house. For anyone who loves these types of homes, San Francisco is the holy grail. I fell upon this house by Schwartz and Architecture and I was completely blown away. From the beautifully organized pantry to the gorgeous open shelving, I'm loving all the little details of this renovation. Typical of many Victorians, this home's kitchen evolved out of an enclosed porch. The centerpiece of the new kitchen is a fabulous island/drop leaf table that converts from a casual family dining area to a place for the kids to work on art projects, or to provide seating for twelve.

For more Schwartz and Architecture projects, click here

I want to live here...

Hats off to Westbrook Interiors for creating one of the most adorable homes I've ever seen. As I was browsing through the pictures yesterday I couldn't help but envision myself in that beautiful abode, curled up on the living room couch reading a book... It exudes warmth, comfort and casual elegance. It blends old with new, traditional with modern, yet manages to stay unintimidating and laid-back.  I love the use of lanterns, the linen slip-covered chairs tucked underneath the rustic barn wood dining room table, the intricately detailed kitchen back splash and cast iron chandelier hanging over the island. I could go on about this show house but I'll let the pictures speak for themselves!

For more Westbrook designs visit:  www.westbrookinteriors.com

Ode to the Farmhouse Sink...

What's there not to love about farmhouse sinks? They are rustic, charming, extra-deep and minimalistic enough to blend into a modern setting. Furthermore, because the front of the sink is meant to be exposed it minimizes the "reach-over" space allowing for easy access into the sink. I've always been a fan of country kitchens but my heart skipped a beat when I saw this first picture... I love the open shelves, industrial pendant light fixtures and of course, the farmhouse sink. Interior designer Sally Wheat has created an inviting kitchen where modern and country co-exist in perfect harmony. Love it!

Sally Wheat

Brooke Giannetti

Atmosphere Interior Design

Margot Austin

Nurit Geffen - Batim Studio

House and Home

Ken Gemes

Anne Coyle

Ashley Goforth

Making modern comfortable...

I personally have a hard time with modern décor.  Even when well-executed, modern spaces often translate as cold, one-dimensional, flat and uninviting. When creating a modern space, keep room functionality in mind. If a living room doesn’t evoke feelings of warmth and relaxation, then it’s not fulfilling its primary function. When I think of modern, I often think of IKEA. Their furniture is trendy and affordable, usually clean lined and modular which is fine BUT add one too many IKEA products in one room and  I promise it will fall flat. 

The key to keeping modern comfortable is balance. 

Tame down your linear elements by introducing one of the following:

1- Texture: add a faux sheepskin rug, distressed wood table or textural wallpaper

2- Patterns: Add a hit of pattern on a few throw pillows, curtains or on a a single armchair 

3- Vintage finds: Head to your local flea market, find something cool and modify it! Old suitcases, chandeliers, side tables or frames can add interest into a room

4- Art: No need to spend tons of money here, simply print a few of  your favorite pictures, frame them and create an interesting arrangement on an accent wall. Try to think outside of the box, many of your favorite personal items or travel souvenirs can make great pieces of art.

5- Natural elements: Add flowers, rocks, seashells, elephant leaf, miniature topiaries or even driftwood in any space to make it more welcoming.